KENTWOOD, MI - They may have come from a galaxy far, far away, but on Saturday, they will be at Woodland Mall.

Star Wars characters will appear at the mall from 1 to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, to ring bells for the Salvation Army of Kent County's Red Kettle "Give Till It Helps" Christmas Campaign.

Characters will include Darth Vader, Storm Troopers, Obi-Wan Kenobi, various Jedi, and members of the Imperial Royal Guard from the Great Lakes Garrison.

IF YOU GO

Star Wars characters at the Woodland Mall

When: Saturday, Dec. 14, 1 to 2 p.m.Where: Woodland Mall, 3195 28th St SE, outside of Macy's, J.C. Penney, Sears, and throughout the mallWhat: Star Wars characters will be available for photos, and the Salvation Army Brass Band will perform holiday favorites in the food court. Donations will be accepted.

At this point in the year, the Salvation Army has typically reached 50 percent of its annual goal. This year, they have received 40 percent.

The charity is trying to raise $1.75 million for its 2013 Christmas Campaign, a $50,000 increase over last year. The Salvation Army says there is increased need in Kent County this year.

Red Kettle donation hours are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at nearly 70 locations in the county. Donations can be made in person, online at sawmni.org, by phone at 616-459-3433 or 1-800-SAL-ARMY, or by sending gifts directly to the Salvation Army, 1215 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3849.

Nearly 33 million Americans receive assistance from the Salvation Army each year nationwide. About 82 cents of every dollar raised is used to support those services in nearly 9,000 communities nationwide, according to a press release.

Jonathan Van Zytveld is a writer for MLive/The Grand Rapids Press. Email him at jvanzytv@mlive.com, and follow him on Twitter.